At a very young age I became fascinated by sounds. This interest, inevitably, was cultivated by listening to the noises from the rich, natural environment in the remote area of Brazil where my parents were missionaries to a native tribe. Simultaneously, multiple languages were being spoken to me that stimulated my aural senses. Perhaps the confluence of these early experiences led me toward the study of music in addition to a profound appreciation for how different cultures use musical sounds.

I draw upon these past experiences to assist students’ development into complete musicians. Thiscompletenessis not just about mastering musical technique but developing an understanding of both aesthetics and cultural values in composition. In this context, 体育买球 University’s commitment to fostering a liberal arts environment enables me to have heightened personal interaction with students so I can help them find their artistic voice. This end result is perhaps the most rewarding for me in my role as a music professor.

When I examine my own musical education in the conservatory system and then juxtapose this experience with the liberal arts approach, I see what an excellent place 体育买球 is for the development of a young artist. The liberal arts experience fosters the pursuit of knowledge and truth through a comprehensive central curriculum that can powerfully expand the cultural and intellectual horizons of students.

My passion for the liberal arts model also inspired me to become involved with 体育买球’s Global Opportunities programs. I have been and am currently involved with study trips to three different destinations: Italy, Central America and Israel. I love the experience of traveling with students and creating a learning environment out of the real-life situations imposed by traveling logistics and cross-cultural interactions. And of course, there is plenty of improvisation in all these trips—from trying different foods, to getting completely disoriented in a medieval town—it is all an adventure!